6 Easy Steps to Make a Therapy Dog Vest

Dog vest is not merely an accessory for the pet, but it functions in a similar manner to a man’s regular clothing. The vest provides protection from the cold and other harsh condition in the environment; also, it shows the dog’s identity, ability, and profession. In other words, vest is like a uniform for the dog. It is true that dogs are trained for certain purposes and the pets are given vest to show their specialties.

Image from things4yourdog.com

One of the most commonly seen is therapy dog; usually, such excellent pet appears on public places such as retirement houses, nursing homes, hospitals, etc. The job is to provide comfort and affection to the elderly, hospitalized people, and so on. A therapy dog vest is like a nice identity card which shows name and profession.

Such vest is widely available in the market, but anyone can easily make it by using some simple tools and small amount of fabric. There are some easy steps to take which are listed as follows:

Step 1: Measuring the dog

The vest does not necessarily have to cover the entire body of the dog, so measure only the length of the spine (from neck to the base of the tail), chest width, and stomach width. Write down the measurements.

Step 2: Drawing a vest pattern

The pattern of a therapy dog vest is not very complicated; there are even many examples available in the Internet. The basic pattern is that the vest should cover the length of the spine and it should be strengthen by two belt-like shape patterns; one should go around the stomach and another goes underneath the dog’s neck. Draw the pattern on a piece of paper.

Step 3: Cutting the fabric

Fold a piece of fabric in half and attach the pattern on top of it. Use a scissors to properly cut the fabric based on the pattern. Pin the pattern if necessary, so it does not move during the process.

Step 4: Making adjustments

The pattern was probably incorrectly measured, so it is important to try the already cut fabric on the dog and make some adjustments if necessary. The vest should be comfortable for the dog; never use a too tight or too loose vest for the pet.

Step 5: Adding Velcro

Sew a Velcro strap on each of the belt-like shaped patterns. Please ensure that the fuzzy and sticky sides are attached properly. Each Velcro strap should be at least 2-inch long.

Step 6: Adding letters

The vest for therapy dog is actually ready to use, but it is probably necessary to use “therapy dog” labeling followed by the dog’s name. The easiest way is to use stencil letters on the fabric. Fill the letters with markers using contrasting colors; the label should be easy to notice and read.

Depending on the body measurement of the dog, the vest may require more amount of fabric. Put in mind that scissors, pin, and needles are sharp items, please be careful when using them. Follow the given instruction properly, and the therapy dog vest should be ready in no time.